Ocean City Fall Block Party Lines Asbury Avenue With 400-Plus Vendors

More than 400 crafters, food vendors and entertainers will fill a mile of Asbury Avenue this Saturday for the Ocean City Fall Block Party, according to PhillyVoice.

The annual event runs Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. between Fifth and 14th streets in downtown Ocean City, N.J. Admission is free, and the party happens rain or shine.

Live entertainment runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at spots along the avenue, according to PhillyVoice, with performers including the Robert Boney Band, the Pennsport String Band and Big Daddy. Families can expect balloon artists and kid-friendly activities throughout the day.

Pony rides for children run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ocean City Tabernacle at Sixth Street and Asbury Avenue. Food stands will serve sweet and savory festival bites, and early holiday shoppers can browse handmade jewelry, home decor and other goods from local crafters.

Parking is free during the event in municipal lots and metered spaces, according to PhillyVoice. The shopping continues after the block party through the Boardwalk and Downtown Merchant Discount Days, with participating businesses offering deals from Oct. 10 through Oct. 12.

The event is organized by the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce and marks one of the biggest fall festivals on the Jersey Shore calendar. For many families, it has become a yearly signal that autumn has truly arrived at the shore.